This course is for anyone who plays guitar and wants the experience of making music together. A love of music and a commitment to attending classes and practising between sessions are essential. The ability to read music is desirable but not required before you begin.

Over the course of the term, you will learn to play simple ensemble guitar pieces together, guided by a conductor. You will develop your technique, rhythmic skills, music reading, and understanding of ensemble playing. You will also be expected to complete an Individual Learning Plan to help support your progress.

Please note that while all of the above is introduced over a single term (10 weeks), the course is designed to develop progressively across the full year. If your current playing level is not yet suited to ensemble work, we may suggest a more appropriate starting point.

You will learn through practical activities, ensemble exercises, listening and analysis, demonstration, discussion, and peer feedback. Supporting online materials are available alongside in-class sessions. Regular individual practice between classes is important and will make a real difference to your progress.

You will be continually assessed through your practical activities and will receive feedback in a variety of ways such as peer assessment, verbal and written feedback from your teacher. This is a non-accredited course, but a certificate of completion can be provided by the College on request. Once you have completed the course, you may choose to enrol on a further term in this subject or another subject.

You may be eligible for fee reductions or one of our bursaries, please check the Information and Advice section of our website to find out more.

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet learners’ needs. Provision of assistive equipment is available and access support can be provided through reasonable adjustments, subject to an interview with the ALS team and/or the Disability Officer. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre.

We offer free support with finding a job, including 1-1 support with job applications, creating a CV or improving your interview skills, as well as advice about progression opportunities. Visit the website for more information or to book an appointment with our Employability Coach.

There are regular cross-college events, external speaker visits, exhibitions, and opportunities for you to get involved in college life. Look out for adverts around the college, iLearn or sign up to Our Newsletter via the website.

Yiolanda Loizou – guitar tutor

Yiolanda is a professional guitarist, vocalist, and composer with over a decade of experience across performance, composition, and music education. She has performed as a soloist and ensemble musician across Europe, with collaborators including the Cyprus Guitar Orchestra, and the Sorori Voice Ensemble, and holds a BMus and MMus in Classical Guitar Performance from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.

TEACHING AND LEARNER SUPPORT
Yiolanda is an experienced guitar tutor covering all styles and genres, as well as guitar ensemble coaching. Her teaching is friendly, patient, and structured, responsive to individual learners and groups alike.

Students leave with solid technique, musical confidence, and the skills to perform, progress, and enjoy making music for life.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND CREDENTIALS
- MMus Classical Guitar Performance – Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance
- BMus (Honours) – Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance
- Award recipient: Finzi Trust, Wolfson Foundation Trust, Henry Wood Accommodation Trust, Cyprus State Scholarship Foundation
- Performed in prestigious venues including Queen’s House, National Maritime Museum, Bank of England, and featured in festivals including New Lights Festival

PROFESSIONAL LINKS
https://yiolandaloizou.com/